Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with thirty some years' experience. I currently supervise master's degree level students in substance abuse treatment field placement. I have delivered services in a variety of contexts: schools, hospitals, and community mental health agencies. I approach my work with curiosity, openness, and transparency - attempting to increase understanding and build community in diversity.
We will start with a brief introduction. I would like to know what name or form of your name you want me to use. I would want to discuss what you expect of me and what I expect of you. I would like to ask you what you want to accomplish. How would your world look after therapy? We would begin to start formulating a plan of action.
First, I have a quirky sense of humor, at least so I am told. Laughing disperses energy that might be misused. I do my level best to focus on and become aware of client needs and strengths. I review goals frequently, checking if they are reachable or need modification. I ask if I am serving a client's needs, regularly.
I seem to work well with clients who have anxiety issues. Those who feel stuck and are uncertain what to do next, I serve well. I work well with those adults in their 20's and those past their careers and a full nest. I like helping people realize they are better than their thoughts of themselves and the stories they tell them.
Mindfulness is helpful in slowing down everything, while being completely focused on the present moment. Mindfulness-based therapies help clients break negative thought patterns, decreasing limiting self judgements. The mindfulness approach is empowering. This approach focuses energy on the moment, avoiding being overwhelmed and establishing resilience.
CBT helps clients change self-defeating thinking patterns and behaviors, leading to an improved quality of life. Clients in therapy can develop skills and strategies to manage stress, challenge negative thoughts and stories they tell themselves. This can lead to modifying behaviors, which can lead to positive outcomes.
Working with clients, using this approach, I have helped individuals embrace their thoughts and feelings rather than fighting or avoiding them. Then, we worked together to Identify and clarify personal values to guide meaningful actions. This has Helps individuals see themselves as more than their thoughts and feelings, fostering a new sense of self.